March Madness Bracket 2018: Predictions for Toughest 1st-Round Games

In most cases, we spend extra time on those tricky 8-9 and 7-10 matchups. Assuming the NCAA selection committee seeds programs correctly, it's expected the matchups in the middle of each regional bracket should produce fantastic finishes.

For casual fans, it's easier to rely on a recognizable name to shine in the Big Dance. However, it could backfire when the opponent flies under the radar with a strong cast or an underrated defense to force an off night for a star collegiate player.

The men's basketball tournament brackets pit some standout freshmen against teams that may not have won their conference title but otherwise put together a solid season.

Typically, it's unwise to overlook a good team for an above-average talent, but in a few cases, discussed below, the notable player on a good night should have enough to lead his team to victory. 

We'll go through three tough first-round contests and project a winner.

No. 7 Texas A&M vs. No. 10 Providence 

Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

After Providence's strong run in the Big East tournament, it's fair to consider this mini-upset. The Friars took Villanova to overtime but fell short in the conference title game.

Head coach Ed Cooley will regroup and prepare for a Texas A&M team that dominates the boards with big bodies. Tyler Davis and Robert Williams combine to average nearly 18 rebounds per game. Tonny Trocha-Morelos, a 6'10" center, logs 22.3 minutes per contest as a presence in the paint as well.

In this matchup, there's a premium on the Friars' shot selection. Texas A&M's activity on the boards will limit Providence's second-chance scoring opportunities.

For the season, they converted on 44 percent of their field-goal attempts, and that must improve against the Aggies to earn a victory. As a team, Providence has shot 40 percent or below in each of the previous four outings.

Look for Texas A&M forward DJ Hogg to chip away at the Friars defense from beyond the arc to complement the bigs on the inside for the win.

Prediction: Texas A&M 76, Providence 72

No. 8 Virginia Tech vs. No. 9 Alabama 

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

No pun intended toward Virginia Tech's head coach, but there's a significant buzz around the program. Buzz Williams' Hokies have victories over North Carolina, Virginia and Duke, all ranked within the top 10 when the teams played each other. 

Over the past month, Virginia Tech has tightened up on defense but struggled in spots to score, which posed a threat to opponents as a strength earlier in the season. Despite the improved defensive efforts, Alabama freshman guard Collin Sexton will have his moments as a catalyst in the Crimson Tide's offense. Junior forward Donta Hall has also come along with double figures in points over the past three contests. 

Can the Hokies keep pace? 

Virginia Tech's leading scorer Justin Robinson needs more help from Justin Bibbs, especially if Alabama guard John Petty brings his hot hand to PPG Paints Arena.

It's more than figuring out how to contain Sexton. Don't count on the Hokies offense cracking 70 on the scoreboard. Alabama closes out a hard-fought victory. 

Prediction: Alabama 73, Virginia Tech 67

No. 7 Rhode Island vs. No. 10 Oklahoma 

Brett Deering/Getty Images

Let's address the elephant in the room. Statistically, freshman star Trae Young won't disappoint under the bright lights. He'll drop 25 or more points and dish out close to 10 assists before the final whistle. However, it's important that he takes care of the ball. Giving Rhode Island more possessions will gift-wrap a victory to the Rams.

Thanks to Young and Christian James, the Sooners boast the No. 4 scoring offense in the nation. The Rams will lean on senior guards Jared Terrell and E.C. Matthews to stay in this game. Rhode Island doesn't have the personnel that defends or rebounds exceptionally well to limit the Sooners' offensive onslaught. 

Head coach Dan Hurley may want to consider using forward Cyril Langevine, who's a solid rebounder and swatted three shots in his last outing.

The Sooners will eventually flame out in the tournament, but their star freshman shines in the opening round to lead his team to victory. 

Prediction: Oklahoma 85, Rhode Island 73

Click here for B/R's Printable Bracket.